3.5.3. Writing Details

Encoding Directions

Further detail of the form of writing can be added, if necessary, as free text in the space provided under Details (fileDesc/sourceDesc/msDesc/physDesc/handDesc/handNote).

Notes

Here any type of writing categorized as “other” can be explained: letters hammered into relief on metalwork (repoussé), for example, or burnt by branding into wood, or discernable in troughs made to hold inlaid lettering. Here too any notable features of the lettering should be noted: tall or small letters, letters written above or below the line, or added irregularly at the end of a line. If “palaeography” is selected (below) as one of the criteria for dating, relevant details about the form of the letters should be provided here. Since inscribed letters are normally cut into the surface (incuse), it is worth noting (only) when the surrounding surface has been chiseled away to leave the letters “in relief”. Conversely, since stamped letters are normally formed in relief by a die impressed into wet clay, it is worth noting (only) when the stamp creates letters impressed into the clay surface (incuse).